Former Atlanta Falcons running back Jamal Anderson, who was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence earlier this year at a Los Angeles home, has been assigned to a proceeding considered an alternative to misdemeanor criminal prosecution, the Los Angeles City Attorney told NBC4 Investigates exclusively.
A City Attorney Hearing is a pre-filing diversion proceeding available to eligible individuals as a form of resolution in cases where a crime was committed, but criminal prosecution might not be appropriate. Charges are not filed against the individual, but the case stays open throughout the length of the statute of limitations, allowing the case to be re-evaluated in the future.
Anderson was originally booked by police on a felony, but the case was referred by county prosecutors to the city attorney for consideration of a misdemeanor filing.
The case against Anderson stems from a police response to a San Fernando Valley home in November. Officers determined that Anderson was involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation, the LAPD said.
Anderson allegedly strangled the victim, police told NBC4 Investigates. Paramedics were called, but the victim declined treatment.
NBC4 Investigates has attempted to reach out to a representative of Anderson for comment.
The 53-year-old Anderson, known for his touchdown celebration dance dubbed the “Dirty Bird,” was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence, police said. He was released from custody on a $50,000 bond, according to Los Angeles County jail records. Jail records did not indicate an initial court date.
Anderson, who was born in Woodland Hills and attended El Camino Real High School, played college football at Moorpark College and Utah before he was drafted by the Falcons in the 1994 draft. His best season came in 1998 when he rushed for 1,846 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.
The outstanding season, which ended in a Super Bowl loss to the John Elway-led Denver Broncos, earned Anderson a Pro Bowl appearance.
He played eight seasons in the NFL, his last in 2001 after a knee injury.